Rare side-effects of checkpoint inhibitors

Purpose of review: The aim of this review is to draw the attention of the physicians and oncologists on the rare side-effects of checkpoint inhibitors not usually reported in clinical trials to treat them quickly and render their prognosis better. Recent findings: Rare side-effects of checkpoint inhibitors are mainly neurologic, haematologic, rheumatologic, renal, and cardiac. The majority of reported side-effects are consequent of the treatment by ipilimumab in patients diagnosed with melanomas. Neurologic side-effects have poorer prognosis compared with other rare side-effects. There is no relationship between developing rare side-effects and the outcome of the disease. Summary: It is important to be aware, when treating patients with checkpoint inhibitors, to detect as early as possible the unpredictable and uncontrollable rare side-effects of these agents. The large spectrum of these rare side-effects should be well documented and reported to assure to the physicians a road map for the diagnosis and the management of these toxicities.
Source: Current Opinion in Oncology - Category: Cancer & Oncology Tags: SUPPORTIVE CARE: Edited by Jean A. Klastersky Source Type: research